There’s just something about the smell of pumpkin and ginger that feels cozy—even if you’re baking for your pup instead of yourself.
These Pumpkin Ginger Dog Treats are a fall-inspired favorite around here (though Snickers would argue they’re good all year long).
They’re made with simple, nourishing ingredients, easy on sensitive tummies, and packed with that warm aroma dogs seem to go wild for.
Ready to bake up something that smells amazing and gets tails wagging? Let’s do it!
Why You’ll Love These Treats
- Supports digestion
- Easy prep and baking
- Perfect texture
- Simple to customize
Pumpkin Ginger Dog Treats Recipe
| Ingredient | Purpose / Benefit |
|---|---|
| 3 cups whole wheat flour (or 2½ cups whole wheat + ½ cup oat flour) | Fiber-rich base, supports digestion, texture |
| ½ tsp ground ginger | Aids digestion, reduces inflammation |
| ½ cup pumpkin purée (unsweetened) | Fiber-rich, gentle on digestion, nutritious |
| 1 large egg, room temp, beaten | Binding ingredient, high-quality protein |
| 1 tbsp coconut oil, melted | Healthy fats, shiny coat, added flavor |
| ¼–½ cup water (as needed) | Adjust dough consistency |
Optional Add-Ins
| Ingredient | Purpose / Benefit |
|---|---|
| 1 tsp ground flaxseed | Adds fiber, healthy omega-3 fatty acids |
| 1 tbsp unsweetened applesauce | Adds moisture, gentle sweetness |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and simplify cleanup.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour (and oat flour, if using) and the ground ginger. Mixing dry ingredients first ensures even distribution of ginger throughout the dough.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin purée, beaten egg, and melted coconut oil until fully combined and smooth. If you’re using optional add-ins (flaxseed or applesauce), add them to the wet mixture now and mix well.
4. Form the Dough
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, stirring gently. Slowly add ¼ cup water, mixing until dough begins to form. If dough seems too dry and crumbly, add additional water slowly (1 tablespoon at a time), just until dough comes together. The dough should feel soft but manageable, not sticky.
5. Roll Out the Dough
Place dough onto a lightly floured surface. Using a rolling pin, gently roll out the dough evenly to about ¼-inch thickness. A consistent thickness ensures even baking and a nice crunchy texture.
6. Cut Into Desired Shapes
Use cookie cutters to cut dough into your desired shapes. Alternatively, use a sharp knife to cut into small squares or rectangles. Place each treat gently onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each for even baking.
7. Bake the Treats
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20–25 minutes, until treats are firm and lightly golden. If your dog prefers crunchier treats, bake an additional 5–7 minutes or allow them to cool in the oven with the door slightly open for extra crispness.
8. Cool Completely
Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack and cool completely before storing. Cooling thoroughly ensures a crunchy texture and better shelf life.
Storage & Shelf Life
Store completely cooled treats in an airtight container. At room temperature, they’ll stay fresh for about one week. Refrigerate for up to two weeks, or freeze them for up to three months. Thaw briefly at room temperature before serving or give directly from the freezer as a crunchy snack.
Feeding Guidelines
These treats are nutritious but should be given in moderation. Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake. Here’s a helpful general guideline based on dog size:
- Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1–2 treats daily
- Medium dogs (20–50 lbs): 2–3 treats daily
- Large dogs (50+ lbs): 3–4 treats daily
Adjust serving size based on your dog’s size, dietary needs, and activity level.
Customization Ideas
- Swap pumpkin purée with mashed sweet potato or unsweetened applesauce for variety.
- Replace coconut oil with olive oil or leave it out if preferred.
- Add finely shredded carrots or zucchini for additional fiber and nutrients.
- Replace whole wheat flour with a gluten-free option like brown rice flour or almond flour.
Benefits of the Ingredients
- Whole Wheat Flour & Oat Flour: Provide dietary fiber, support digestive health, and offer sustained energy.
- Ground Ginger: Known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive-aid properties; ideal for sensitive stomachs.
- Pumpkin Purée: Fiber-rich, gentle on digestion, supports digestive regularity, provides essential nutrients.
- Egg: Rich in high-quality protein, amino acids, supports muscle and coat health.
- Coconut Oil: Beneficial fatty acids support healthy skin and a shiny coat.
FAQs
Can puppies eat these pumpkin ginger treats?
Yes, these treats are gentle enough for puppies. Introduce them gradually and consult your vet if your pup has any dietary sensitivities.
Can I substitute ginger powder with fresh ginger?
You can use finely grated fresh ginger in moderation (approximately 1 teaspoon), but powdered ginger is easier to measure evenly.
Can I freeze the dough before baking?
Absolutely! Wrap dough tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before rolling and baking.
Final Thoughts
With these Pumpkin Ginger Dog Treats, you’re not just baking treats—you’re baking health, happiness, and wagging tails. Easy, tasty, and nutritious, these treats are everything store-bought options promise but often fail to deliver.
Snickers always waits eagerly by the oven when these are baking. Trust me, your dog will too. Bake a batch today and watch those tails wag—guaranteed smiles all around!